I guess as another year almost draws to an end there is nothing more to learn from it when you reach 'mature' years. You've seen it all before, been there and have many tee-shirts. One thing I have learnt through all these years is that you will never find what you are searching for. How do you know when you've found it? Nothing we have is really ours, it is a temporary moment in time. The moments are what you need to focus on, nothing else. I've made new friends in 2018, won two awards, and had some scary pet moments with our beloved Alfie. We've saved him and hopefully he will enjoy many more happy days with us, his family.
Other things are just material. They are just things. That new sofa will have the springs poking through it one day. The shiny car on the driveway has a shelf life. Your house is just a shelter, be it ever so humble or a sprawling mansion. Be thankful to have that roof over your head, many don't. You won't get brownie points for accumulating wealth or possessions.
Stop, take a look around you. Are you lucky enough to have family or pets in your life? Can you do more to make your and their lives happier? As you give, so shall you receive. Can that laughter, snap those photos, for these are the only things that truly matter. One day their chair will be empty, don't wait until that time to show them your love. At some point your pets collar will be in a drawer. They will find new stronger legs on the other side of that Rainbow Bridge.
Some of my friends will be closing the door on 2018 having lost their closest friend during that time. The pain of losing a loved one never goes away. It changes. Life can be a stressful ball of challenges if you allow it to be, don't let it. Be there when others need you the most. Bring laughter back into their lives when they are ready to find it once more.
If you have people or fur babies around you, then you truly know what life and love is, 2019 won't be any different. We will celebrate, laugh, love and cry. Your blank pages are really yours to do as you please. When you feel down and the world is against you just remember laughter is the best medicine, I can vouch for that. Look 'em in the eye and give them a hug.
Nobody will remember your expensive rug or posh shoes when you've gone, they will remember YOU. Give them something to smile about, memories to cherish. Make 2019 count in a love way.
I wish each and every one of you everything that you hope and wish for that makes you happy. Don't be alone. If you feel lonely, there's always a pet out there looking for a new Mummy or Daddy. Stay away from toxic people that make you feel angry, sad or useless. There are plenty more that will lift your spirits. My family are my life and we have much to celebrate this year, starting with this old birds 60th! May your dreams come true. Make it happen. That is life. That is all. Happy 2019 XX
Trisha.